Muscular Dystrophy

Definition

Muscular dystrophy is a group of inherited, progressive muscle disorders. All forms cause progressive weakness and degeneration of the muscles that control movement. Some also affect the heart or other organs. Age of onset is between infancy to adulthood. The different forms include:

Duchenne dystrophy, which is the most common

Becker dystrophy, which is a milder form of Duchenne dystrophy

Myotonic muscular dystrophy, which can begin in late adulthood

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, which affects the muscles of the face, shoulder blades, and upper arms

Congenital muscular dystrophy, which is diagnosed on or near birth and results in overall muscle weakness

Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, which affects the muscles of the shoulders, upper-arms, and calf muscles

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, which affects the muscles around the hips and shoulders

Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy, which affects swallowing and the ability to keep the eyes open

Causes

This condition is caused by defects in genes that control muscle development and function. In some cases, the genes are passed from parent to child. In other cases, the genetic mutation occurs spontaneously.

Risk Factors

Males are at increased risk for Duchenne dystrophy and Becker dystrophy. Factors that increase your chance of developing muscular dystrophy. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

The risk of muscular dystrophy is increased if you have a family member with muscular dystrophy.

Symptoms

Each type of muscular dystrophy has its own unique symptoms. For example, the muscles that are affected may differ depending upon the type.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.